Most Americans over the age of 21 consume alcohol at least occasionally, but few are aware of all the effects it can have on your body and your health. Here’s what you should know about alcohol consumption:
The current Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that adults of legal drinking age should limit their alcohol intake to no more than one drink a day for women or two drinks a day for men. However, the guidelines also state that the less alcohol you consume, the better for your health.
Excessive drinking, including binge drinking — that is, four or more drinks during a single occasion for women and five or more for men — and heavy drinking — defined as eight or more drinks per week for women and 15 or more for men — is more likely to lead to health risks.
In the short term, excessive drinking can put you at greater risk of injuries — especially car crashes, alcohol poisoning, violence and risky sexual behaviors.
Driving after drinking even a moderate amount of alcohol is dangerous and illegal. Always have a plan to get home safely via either a designated driver or rideshare service.
In the long-term, excessive drinking can lead to:
• Cancer
• High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and liver disease
• Weakened immune system
• Cognitive issues, such as dementia or poor school performance
• Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety
If you or a loved one is struggling with excessive alcohol use or alcohol dependence, visit YourLifeIowa.org or call 855-581-8111 for free, confidential help.
Visit the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism website to learn more about alcohol’s effects on the body.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
